10 of the best hand creams

Between plunging temperatures and ramped-up central heating – not to mention our collective uptake of alcohol-laced sanitiser – it's likely you're lamenting eternally dry hands, cracked cuticles, and weakened nails right about now. Suddenly, a good hand cream is more than just a luxury – it's a skincare essential.

On a daily basis, your hands are exposed to the same environmental stressors as your face: think pollution, UV rays, and changes in temperature. So, it makes sense that we should extend our skincare routine right to our fingertips.

However, we’re not suggesting you plunge your fingers into that triple-figure jar of night cream you’ve just invested in: one of the best luxury hand creams will do the job perfectly.

Not only do these multi-tasking formulas feel (and smell) lovely, but they also come with a whole host of advanced benefits. From softening ragged cuticles to extending the life of your manicure and even erasing age spots and sun damage, there are so many reasons to upgrade your cream of choice now. Hyaluronic acid, deep-hydrating algae, and even restorative retinol now feature in the best hand creams on the shelves.

And let’s not forget the mood-boosting powers of a spontaneous pamper – when it comes to midday beauty pick-me-ups, a simple sweet-scented hand lotion ranks high. Invest in one you love, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it at all points of the day. Stash one on your (at-home) desk, hide one in your handbag, or place one by your bedside table – we guarantee they’ll make a welcome (and beneficial) addition to your daily routine.

So much more than a daily indulgence, this clinically proven formula contains a botanical extract that rivals the renewing powers of pure retinol (so goodbye dark spots), along with brightening liquorice and mimosa wax for hydration that really lasts.

Ameliorate's intensive hand treatment uses a unique hydration complex to reverse even significant dryness and chapping, so it's a good option for anyone constantly having to wash their hands. It's potent enough to help moisturise your cuticles, too.

Glossier's anticipated hand cream is finally here, and it does not disappoint. It's infused with the universally adored You fragrance – a comforting, musky affair – and comes in a practical flip-top case.

Specially formulated for hands at crisis point (including eczema sufferers), this dermatologist-approved hand cream provides the most intensive of relief. It's non-greasy, satisfyingly soothing, and even resistant to water – ideal for anyone amping up their hand-washing at the moment.

This long-loved hand cream is designed to offer a moment of respite from today's undeniably stressful reality. The geranium and orange essential oils will calm a racing mind, while the avocado and hemp oils repair over-washed hands.

The restorative benefits of retinol have long been extolled, but have you considered using this wonder ingredient on your hands? This supercharged hand serum contains an active retinol complex (alongside hyaluronic acid and a UV filter) to encourage cell turnover on the backs of the hands, gradually refining texture and fading dark spots as you use it.

Augustinus Bader's latest launch is perfect for right now. This rich, replenishing hand cream contains the same TFC8® cell-energising complex as the brand's cult face products, and works to reduce age spots while enhancing elasticity.

After years on the shelves, this is still one of the best treatments for chronically dry hands and cracking cuticles. Slather it on before bed, and wake up with hands that feel smoother and softer (as well as stronger nails over time).

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